Film Studies - KS5

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The Media is powerful. It is persuasive in shaping the views of society. SJB students will learn to interrogate what has become so easily consumed in the media landscape. We aim to equip the students with essential 21st century skills and knowledge–media literacy, creativity, critical thinking and employability.

Exam Board: EDUQAS

Qualification: A-Level

EDUQAS Film Studies A-Level SpecificationFilm Studies Curriculum Map

Film Studies is an exciting and creative course that combines critical analysis with practical filmmaking. You will explore a wide range of films from Hollywood classics to global cinema, while also developing your own short film or screenplay. This subject is perfect for students who are passionate about film, enjoy analysing visual storytelling, and want to gain both academic and creative skills that open doors to a variety of future careers.

Component 1: Varieties of Film and Film-making

  • Hollywood 1930–1990 (comparative study: Classical Hollywood and New Hollywood)
  • American film since 2012 (mainstream and independent)
  • British film since 1995

Component 2: Global Filmmaking Perspectives

  • Global film (European and non-European non-English language films)
  • Documentary film
  • Silent cinema
  • Experimental film (1960–2001)

Component 3: Production (Non-Exam Assessment)

  • A short film (4–5 minutes) or a screenplay (1600–1800 words) with storyboard
  • An evaluative analysis (1600–1800 words) comparing own work to professionally produced films

 

Students following this course will gain a wide variety of knowledge and skills including:

  • Critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of film form, meaning, and context
  • Creative and technical skills in film production, screenplay writing, and visual storytelling
  • Understanding of cultural, historical, political, and global perspectives in cinema
  • Communication and evaluative skills through analysis and discussion of film texts
  • Preparation for careers in media, film production, journalism, marketing, education, and related field

Film Studies opens doors to a diverse range of exciting career paths. Here are just a few examples of where it can lead

1. Film and Television Production
Practical experience in film-making and storytelling provides a pathway into directing, producing, editing, and cinematography, with opportunities in film, television, and digital media.

2. Screenwriting and Creative Industries
Strong skills in narrative construction and visual communication prepare students for careers in screenwriting, script development, advertising, and other creative sectors.

3. Journalism and Broadcasting
Analytical and communication skills developed through film analysis are highly valued in film criticism, cultural journalism, and broadcast media.

4. Marketing, PR, and Media Management
An understanding of audiences, representation, and cultural context equips students for roles in marketing, public relations, media planning, and brand management.

5. Education and Academia
Some students pursue teaching careers in Film, Media, or English, or continue their studies at university and move into research, lecturing, or educational leadership.

6. Arts, Culture, and Heritage Sector
Knowledge of global cinema and cultural contexts opens opportunities in arts administration, festival programming, museum curation, and cultural policy.

For students to be successful in Film Studies they should have a genuine interest in film, an eye for detail, and the ability to think critically and write analytically.

Entry Requirements:

  • A minimum of a grade 6 in GCSE English Language or Literature is essential
  • It is desirable to also have a grade 6 in GCSE Media Studies, History, Art or RE

The A Level is assessed through two written examinations and one non-exam assessment.

Component 1: Varieties of Film and Film-making
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
35% of A Level

Component 2: Global Filmmaking Perspectives
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
35% of A Level

Component 3: Production (Non-Exam Assessment)
Coursework portfolio
30% of A Level

All components are completed at the end of Year 13.

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